River Cruise of the Week: Avalon’s Paris and Normandy

When many people think of France, they first think of Paris, with its iconic Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and glorious Arc de Triomphe. But there’s more to France than just the City of Light. Situated about two hours from Paris is one of the most scenic and historically significant locations in all of France: Normandy. And best of all, you can see it from the comfort and convenience of a river cruise.

Departing between March and October 2012, Avalon Waterways has crafted a superb (and easily accessible) weeklong itinerary that explores the best Paris and its surrounding environs have to offer. There’s plenty of time to explore Paris itself, where a multitude of options are available. Visit the legendary Louvre in the morning and find a quiet café in Montmartre in the afternoon. Whether you’re ascending Gustav Eiffel’s iron masterpiece or strolling the Champs Elysees, you’ll no doubt enjoy the experience.

Sailing aboard the Avalon Creativity is an equally impressive experience. With just 140 passengers, finding that cozy corner or favorite deck chair is never an issue. But there’s more to this royal blue-hulled river cruise ship than just space; every public room features expansive walls of glass, ensuring that the beauty of the French countryside is experienced at all times. A complimentary beverage station serves up hot chocolate (great for those cool shoulder-season voyages), hot tea and premium coffees. Staterooms are spacious and well-appointed, and offer amenities like WiFi access and room service.

Avalon offers a variety of staterooms to suit every taste and budget. Pictured here is the Avalon Suite aboard Avalon Creativity. Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways.

Going ashore is made that much easier thanks to the provided headsets for all European shore excursions, ensuring guests never have to strain to hear their local English-speaking guides.

The itinerary for the Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches reads like a must-see list for France. After leaving the French capital, Avalon Creativity sails for Conflans, where you can choose between two equally fascinating excursions: a visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise to see the town where Vincent Van Gogh lived out his days; or you can explore Napoleon’s Chateau de Malmaison, purchased by Josephine Bonaparte while her famous husband was fighting in Egypt.

Afterward, it’s off to Vernon where you can stroll through this quaint, beautiful town or take an excursion to nearby Giverny, the former home of acclaimed painter Claude Monet.

The historic cliffs of Normandy. Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Two days in Rouen allows for proper exploration of this important Upper Normandy capital. It’s also the site of Avalon’s included excursion to the historic Beaches of Normandy, including Omaha Beach, the site of the World War II Allied landing invasion that was portrayed with stunning accuracy in the 1998 film, Saving Private Ryan.

Before returning to Paris at the end of this alluring itinerary, time is made for a stop in Les Andelys, the sight of the imposing Chateau Gaillard. Built by England’s King Richard the Lionheart in 1196, this castle is a must-see example of medieval architecture and an excellent vantage point overlooking the River Seine.

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Comparing River Cruise Companies

Most river cruise vessels are the same length, the same width and they have the same number of decks. And many sail the same rivers on similar itineraries. But there are some key differentiators that can make or break your cruise, depending on what's included, and more often, what's not.

How To Choose Your River Cruise

Choosing a river cruise can be a source of consternation, confusion and frustration. In Europe alone there are more than two dozen navigable rivers and canals. Add the confluence of companies offering seemingly similar experiences and you might just end up feeling as though you’re going upriver without a paddle, so to speak.

Price Comparisons

Comparative 2020 pricing for river cruises in similar staterooms across all operators. Broken down by river and region. For comparison purposes, we looked for staterooms of equivalent sizes and features, namely those with French balconies or step-out balconies. Find out what you should be paying (or could be paying) for your river cruise.